US envoy underscores importance of all regional players for stability in South Asia

US ambassador discussed opportunities to strengthen economic ties between the US and Pakistan

ISLAMABAD: US Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia Ambassador Alice Wells, during her visit to Pakistan, underscored the importance of all actors in the region takings steps to advance security, stability, and cooperation in South Asia.

The US Embassy in a statement on Tuesday said Wells discussed opportunities to strengthen economic ties between the United States and Pakistan and explored other areas for growth in the bilateral relationship.

The ambassador reviewed key items on Pak-US bilateral agenda and discussed regional security, including joint efforts to advance the Afghan peace process.

Wells also met think tank representatives and political leaders from various political parties.  She highlighted the United States’ commitment to work collaboratively to advance the shared goals of the American and Pakistani people.

She also met with the Finance Adviser to the Prime Minister Abdul Hafeez Shaikh, Foreign Secretary Sohail Mahmood, Additional Secretary for Interior Tariq Sardar, and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee General Hayat.

She began her visit with a joint meeting with US Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Ambassador Zalmay Khalilzad and an interagency delegation comprised of senior officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Pakistani military.  Ambassador Wells and Ambassador Khalilzad also met with Chief of Army Staff General Bajwa.